Thomasville is in her blood

Thomasville Mayor Joe Bennett proclaimed July 28 as Judy Smith Day. Smith, a descendant of the city’s founder, has served as administrative assistant at Thomasville Area Chamber of Commerce for 26 years.

THOMASVILLE —

More than 150 years ago, Judy Smith’s great-great grandfather founded the city of Thomasville. Now. she leaves a legacy of her own.

June 28 was proclaimed by Thomasville Mayor Joe Bennett as Judy Smith Day.

Smith, the descendent of John Thomas, retired after 26 years as administrative assistant at the Thomasville Area Chamber of Commerce.

"It's been my honor to be associated with the people who have such a passion for Thomasville," Smith said. "They're all working for a common cause to make Thomasville a better place to live and work."

Chamber president Doug Croft credits Smith for being an integral part of what the Chamber has been able to accomplish, including its recent recognition as All-America City.

“To many people, the front door is their first impression,” Croft said. “She’s been our official front-door greeter for 26 years. I think it’s safe to say she’s represented Thomasville very well.

“She’s answered every crazy question imaginable, and she answers them with grace and professionalism. We’ve been fortunate to have her knowledge and capabilities, but also her demeanor. We tease about this, but the truth is she doesn’t make mistakes.”

Smith said one of her most memorable moments while serving at the Chamber came when George H.W. Bush came through Thomasville. She has had many “wow” moments, as Smith calls them, through nearly three decades in the city she has always called home.

The culmination of everything she has worked for fittingly came this month when the National Civic League bestowed on the Chair City its milestone achievement in Denver, Colo., just days before her retirement.

“The All-America City is all about showcasing Thomasville,” Smith said. “I didn’t go to Denver this year, but I had maybe a small part in helping put all of that together. It’s just the high note right now.”

Staff Writer Daniel Kennedy can be reached at 888-3575, or kennedy@tvilletimes.com.